Basic Information

The US Virgin Islands is the only territory in the US to have coasts on both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. So when you travel to these islands, be sure to take the opportunity to stick your toe in both of these oceans.

St. Thomas is also home to the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. It has sand floors and a menorah that dates back to the 11th century. It was declared a National Landmark in 1997 and people of all denominations are welcome to come visit it today.

St. John is home to an underwater National Park. In Trunk Bay you will find the Underwater Trail which happens to be one of the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean. Plus, there are many signs below the water that will offer you information about the marine life you are seeing.

Approximately 75% of the population of the island are descendants from African ancestors who came to the Caribbean as slaves in order to work on the sugar plantations. The rest are immigrants from Puerto Rico, North America, The Dominican Republic, Europe, the Middle East, India and other countries. Also, some are descendants from the old wealthy families of the US Virgin Islands, from France, Denmark, England and Holland. As a result, this provides a rich mix of culture and history.